The Pistons are on a season-worst losing streak and it might drop them in the standings to the #2 seed. But that might not be the worst thing if it sets Detroit up for better matchups throughout the playoffs. As of today, the Knicks have been firm in the 3 seed for several weeks while the Cavs have held steady as the 4 seed.
 The Pistons would much rather match up with New York than Cleveland, based on recent outcomes. The Knicks lack some of the foundational attributes to expose the Pistons’ weaknesses that the Cavs and other teams possess. In the long run, it might actually be better for the Pistons to finish second in the East if they can get the matchup they want.
Playoff matchups are more important than seedingÂ
Detroit’s current losing streak is causing fans to panic but it’s important to remember that playoff success is the ultimate goal this season. Making the Eastern Conference Finals as a 2 seed will be preferable to losing in the second round as the 1 seed. Look no further than the Cavaliers themselves, who lost in the second round last season as the top seed and felt the need to make big changes this season.Â
Despite the perceived weakness of the East and the Pistons’ own dominance over it this season, there are no true pushovers among playoff teams. The Pistons could face a tough matchup even in the first round, although it’s very hard to forecast that opponent with the Play-In Tournament. In today’s NBA, the playoffs are often more dependent on matchups and playstyles than regular season records.
The Pistons want to see the Knicks in the playoffs
The Cavaliers have different ways to attack the Pistons and shut them down on the other end. They have two All-Star level guards in James Harden and Donovan Mitchell, as well as two defensive anchors in Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley. All that length on defense can bother the Pistons. And the multiple playmakers also gives them options to attack the Detroit defense.
Conversely, the Knicks don’t have the same advantages. They largely rely on just one creator in Jalen Brunson, who the Pistons can limit with their defensive aces. New York might have multiple 7-footers in Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson, but Towns’ defensive limitations make him less of a factor against the Pistons.
Based on their respective matchups this season, the Pistons would obviously prefer to play the Knicks over the Cavaliers in the playoffs. Any outcome that lands them that matchup, even if it involves losing the top seed to the Celtics, could end up being a benefit. Even if the Pistons are suffering some ugly losses right now, at least fans will have that faint glimmer of hope.